While it's true that some customers view their utility company as a resource, many think of their utility as little more than a monthly bill. Fortunately, this does not have to be the case. An increasing body of evidence shows that previously lost opportunities can be captured by approaching your service territory at the community level. One of the best ways to start such an effort is to establish partnerships with trusted local entities such as nonprofit organizations and municipal governments. We give you the tools you need to create effective partnerships with the communities you serve, present specific case studies of successful partnerships, and give you a template for action that can be modified to meet your specific program goals.